Several students and a teacher within the Fannin County School System were recognized for achievements during the board of education’s Thursday, November 14, meeting.
Eva Key, a West Fannin Elementary School student, was commended for her winning in the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire 2024 Fire Safety Poster Contest. Key was one of 13 winners with over 1,000 having competed.
The Fannin County Middle School girls Cross Country team was congratulated on their region win and being named the state’s runners up this past season. Principal Dr. April Hodges mentioned that this is the team’s third state title in a row.
Coach Cindi Barnes spoke to the athletes’ dedication and running in the dark with glow sticks in preparation for the state meet during fall break.
The high school Lady Rebel Volleyball team was also recognized for their Elite 8 placing and making it to the third round of state playoffs.
Coach Heather Ades, who was recognized for her 100th career win, pointed out that the every team member has a 3.5 grade point average or higher.
Additionally, Ades brought attention to the achievements of three teammates: Maddie Pelfrey, who now holds the school record for career digs at over 2,000. Maggie Ledford, who beat out her older sister, for the season and career record in assists. And, Kaylie Davenport for landing a spot on the All-Region First Team as first outside hitter.
Fannin County High School Skills USA competitors were brought to the board’s attention for their Northeast Georgia Skills USA Region Championship, beating out 20 schools.
In team competitions, Eli Queen, Cohutta Ross and Trenten Flowers won first place in welding fab, earning the Northeast Georgia Skills USA Region Championship along with Reid Norton, Brady Coleman, Eli Plush and Cooper Hilliard in the team works category.
Individually, Bailey Stiles placed first in welding, Bryer Duvall placed third in cabinet making, Mason Ramey placed second in masonry, Nehemiah Watkins placed third in masonry and Castle Barnett placed third in blueprint reading.
“What Mr. (Assistant Principal and CTAE supervisor David) Henson said about people that could be employed right now in their field, here they are,” teacher Ryan Chastain said of the students.
Welding and Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Teacher Terry Flowers was congratulated for being chosen to participate in a state program, Leadership Exploration and Development for CTAE professionals.
“Watching him in a day-to-day basis when he steps into the classroom, the students are engaged, they’re focused, and I know at the end of the day they’re going to learn, not only whatever he was teaching them, but something that they’re going to carry for a lifetime,” Henson said.